This week in theatre rounds up the most noteworthy live theatre playing right now in Toronto. There are a number of holiday-themed shows on offer this season.

A Christmas Carol / Soulpepper - Young Centre / 7:30pm / $22-$68
The Dickensian class A Christmas Carol appears on stage in time for the holidays at Soulpepper. A large cast of Soulpepper regulars bring the story of Scrooge and Tiny Tim to life, with visits along the way from the ghosts of Christmases past, present, and future. The production is directed by Michael Shamata and features Joseph Ziegler as the holiday curmudgeon.

The Story / Evergreen Brick Works / 7:00pm / $12.50-$30
Martha Ross' The Story was solidified as an instant holiday classic when it premiered to critical acclaim last season, and earlier on this year is was nominated for six Dora Awards, with Jennifer Brewin taking home the prize for Outstanding Direction. The show is an outdoor walking tour of the Evergreen Brick Works where, at stops along the way, segments of the nativity story unfold. Ross' cozy and memorable holiday experience plays at the Evergreen Brick Works until December 30.

It's A Wonderful Toronto: The Rob Ford Holiday Spectacular! / Theatre Passe Muraille Backspace / 7:30pm / 2:00pm / $25-$30
Every time a bell rings, the Don Bosco Eagles get a touchdown. The National Theatre of the World presents the city's own It's a Wonderful Life. Replace George Bailey with Rob Ford and you've got our own Toronto tale of failure and financial ruin set before the backdrop of the Christmas season. The city's foremost comedy troupe presents a music sketch comedy revue that's certainly timely, and definitely funny.

The Nutcracker / National Ballet - Four Seasons / 7:00pm / 2:00pm / $52-$100
The National Ballet's annual presentation of The Nutcracker runs throughout the holiday season. This version of the classic tale, set in Imperial Russia, has been delighting audiences since 1995. This year's rotation of cannonball dolls (an ongoing tradition featuring the cameo of notable Torontonians) includes Toronto Argonauts Mike Bradwell and Jason Pottinger, Jim Flaherty, Andrea Horwath, Karen Stintz, and Matt Galloway.

Snow White: The Deliciously Dopey Family Musical / Elgin Theatre / 7:00pm / $27-$85
This year's fractured fairy tale, Snow White: The Deliciously Dopey Family Musical, features the rock n' raucous elements you've come to expect from the panto, plus a number of clever additions. Rick Miller, Carolyn Bennett and Malcolm Clarke are the writers behind the musical. Their story is solidly structured, if not a tad long, that's buoyed throughout by strong performances. While it's nevertheless weighed down by some of the usual Ross Petty proclivities, this year's version is a cracking Christmas treat.

The Second City's Nut-Cracking Holiday Revue / Second City / 8:00pm / $15-$22
For some reflection on the weird and wacky traditions this time of year (over-shopping and over-eating come to mind), the Second City presents its annual roasty-toasty holiday special. Featuring sketches, songs, and improvisations inspired by the sights and sounds of the season, the troupe offers a bit of laughter to accompany your rum and eggnog.

Photo of The Story by Jacqui Jensen-Roy

Castledrum Records are just setting their roots, but they might be in for one hell of a ride. While 2012 was a phenomenal year for indie electronic music in Canada, many artists and fans found homegrown labels scarce. Talent is key to a dynamic music scene, but infrastructure needs to keep up, or artists may find themselves floundering, or looking for a new home base.

Though Castledrum is a London, Ontario start-up, their recent compilation Castledrum Companions featured so many Toronto artists that my curiosity about what's been going on a few hours southwest of the city was piqued. Companions, a gathering of some of Canada's brightest up and coming fringe electronic artists, finds tracks by Toronto's Digits, High Park, Headaches, Doom Tickler, Man Made Hill, and bossFYTE.

It turns out Castledrum Records is a continuation of another London label, Hands. I chatted with label owner Rob Ross about the reason for the name change, what Castledrum is all about, London's struggling music scene, and Ross's own musical projects, Flora and itsagamble!. Ross also put together a heart-rate accelerating mix, which you can press play on right here:

How long has Castledrum been going, and what are your releases so far?

Rob Ross [RR]: Castledrum is just in its infancy. We changed the name from Hands this year due to another label with a similar name.

Hands was started in Edmonton and had a number of releases under its belt (including titles by Candyspilling, Eaux Neaux, Eros Myth and a compilation featuring Purity Ring, Headaches, Gobble Gobble and more) by the time we changed the name earlier this year. As of now Castledrum has one release: Castledrum Companions— a 21 track compilation of various artists, mostly from Ontario. The comp is a primer of things to come.

What releases have planned for the next year?

RR: So far on the release schedule we have albums from High Park, Live Action Fezz and itsagamble! There are more in the works.

Would you say there's a certain sound or genre you'll be focusing on with Castledrum? The compilation features a wide range of electronic artists, from dance to experimental.

RR: I don't want Castledrum to be pigeonholed in a certain genre. However I struggle with labels, such as Warp Records, that have an iconic history of pushing the boundaries of electronic music and in my opinion, have developed ADD. In the last few years Warp started releasing mediocre and sub-par post-rock and jazz fusion stuff and it's watered down their previously stellar back catalogue. Disappointing.

My focus is on artists that have an electronic-based production approach. I'm not all that interested in a label sound, but right now I see Castledrum heading toward the darker corners of the electronic spectrum. The next release will be Northern Hospitality from High Park, and it's a pretty dark affair. After that will be the new Live Action Fezz. Both artists use electronics as a base for their sound but come from very different camps: High Park being more dark/atmospheric while Fezz is still dark but will get some booties shaking — like, in that dimly lit corner of the club.

I'll say that even though there is no "Castledrum sound," I am drawn to those artists who glean emotion and narrative from tools and instruments that are often described as "cold." The emotional aspect of music is paramount to me. I'm very interested in the spaces where experimentation and emotional expression come together.

What formats will you be working with?

RR: All releases will have a physical and digital copy. So far we are looking at limited cassette and CD releases with a digital counterpart. Vinyl will be the next step.

You have an interesting back story in the Canadian music scene. Can you tell us a bit about your life before you settled in London?

RR: I grew up in Winnipeg and surrounded myself with music: I took saxophone and piano lessons, and played guitar, drums and synth. I was a massive fan of Michael Jackson, soul, and Motown growing up. I also lived in Thunder Bay for over a decade, and those people who have lived in TB know you need to make your own fun there. I was in a punk band with my brother, called Pasty White Thighs.

Later on I was really influenced by early Warp artists and was an avid Brave New Waves listener (I can still hear Patti Schmitt's voice in my head), and this piqued my interest in "non-traditional" instruments and sound generation. I started taking apart synthesizers and children's toys and recorded their death cries with a primitive four track recorders that I made. When I was going to school in New Brunswick I got into computer-generated sounds and melodies and loved the infinite possibilities that using that tool can bring.

My first EP as Flora was written in Alberta, while my wife and I lived in a mobile trailer in the middle of a field, during which time I was invited to play the Sound and Vision fest in Portland OR. We moved to Edmonton after three years of country life, where we lived in turn for three years: at that time Edmonton was an incubator of musical talent (see Purity Ring, Born Gold, Renny Wilson, Headaches etc), and a great place for sonic experimentation. Cecil Frena promoted my first Edmonton show. He was a scene builder, building momentum and giving space for people to perform. The scene was very supportive initially; however that seemed to wear down as people left the city - though I hear that Joe Gurba (The Joe/Help) and the Old Ugly crew have taken the Edmonton music scene to the next level now. After three years there we made the move to London, where we live and play now.

Can you talk about where the idea for Castledrum came from, and what inspired you to start a label?

RR: The name Castledrum was made up by my daughter. She used to talk about "Castledrum" being a magical place in the clouds full of music. I mean... really. Perfect name for the new label.

I wanted to start a little label as a launching pad for myself and others to use. So many great artists are hiding out in their home studio without a home for their material. Many people just throw stuff up on Bandcamp or Soundcloud without much fanfare. I am not the most "connected" person: we don't have distribution, we don't have strong media connections and we can't afford anything but limited physical releases; I see Castledrum as a labour of love and less of a proper label. I'm not a schmoozer, I don't "rub the elbows," I try not to play the scene game or be a part of the music industry or really care about trends. I just hear so much great and diverse electronic-based music, especially from Canada, and I want it to be heard by as many people as I can make possible.

How do you find the artists on Castledrum?

RR:Usually someone tells me to check an artist out, mostly online.

You also act as a promoter in London sometimes, either hosting house shows or putting on events in venues: what's the scene in London like right now?

RR: Oh London. To tell you the truth, I've actually disconnected myself from the London scene as of late. London is insecure. I'm not sure if it's the Toronto effect: tower envy. For the most part the scene is pubescent — awkward, unsure of itself, wanting to fit in but not sure how — covered in zits. Talent-wise the scene is very strong and diverse. Artists like You'll Never Get to Heaven, I Smell Blood, Thesis Sahib, New Zebra Kid and EKM all prove that London's talent pool is deep and multi-disciplined, it's just unfortunate that many people miss out on seeing them perform.

London is big enough to have great talent but small enough that the scene cliques and interpersonal issues dictate show attendance. My experience has been that many people will not take chances on artists that they have not heard about until media or certain tastemakers give their stamp of approval. This makes it difficult to promote acts in the city.

London has so much potential and the scene is growing. I just hope that we can take some more risks, get over ourselves, and reach the city's full creative potential. That all being said, I myself have been a recluse lately, focusing on my family, the label, and my own musical output.

Can you talk a bit about your own projects, itsagamble! and Flora?

RR: Flora started almost 10 years ago and is the more melodic, ambient side of my projects. itsgamble! was created to get away from Flora's pastoral serenity and toward more a more abrasive sound. As of now I am working on new material for both projects. There will likely be an itsagamble! release next year.

What are your kids' favorite Castledrum bands right now?

RR: No joke but both my kids love kid YEARS, who was featured on Castledrum Companions. I've also seen my son get down to one of the new Live Action Fez jams that will be released next year.

RAPID FIRE QUESTIONS

Favourite record store: Hot Dog Musique and Cinema in London.

First album you ever bought: La Bamba Soundtrack on vinyl.

MP3, or vinyl?: In the car - MP3. At home - vinyl.

Favourite LP or EP from 2012: Squarepusher - Ufabulum, or Nathan Fake - Steam Days

Band you'd love to see make it big in 2013: Born Gold

Is the world going to end?: Yes - when I die.

Watch the Castledrum Facebook (linked above) in the new year for new releases and announcements.

Mixtape playlist:

Pantyraid - Too Fine to Do Time
Clicks and Whistles - Adventure Tune
Ochre - Me & My Variflex
Cassie - Me and You (Mak & Pasteman Bootleg)
Live Action Fezz - U Want More
Aleksi Perala - Miss August
Wisp - Congratulations
Aquarius Heaven - Universe
Cex - Destination Sexy
Flora - Premonition (Heartstop Edit)
High Park feat Bobbi Dahl - My Walls

Lead photo of Rob Ross by Erin Craig

The city of Toronto has been negotiating new public parks and open spaces with condo and office tower developers for years, they just haven't been telling anyone about it. According to a motion adopted by city council, there could be hundreds of small parks open to the public that simply lack an inviting time. City staff are currently compiling a list of these spaces, and the one's they've found so far are listed and mapped below.

Also this week: a closer, grosser look at Toronto's bed bugs, a list of useless facts about the lost Empress Hotel at Yonge and Gould, and an example of what wedded bliss looked like in 1926.

TOP OF THE POPSAs I discussed in a post earlier this week and mentioned above, Toronto has potentially hundreds of privately-owned public spaces, or POPS, scattered from Etobicoke, through downtown, to Scarborough. Though many are still in construction, these parks, gardens, and plazas are basically no different to city-owned parks. Anyone is welcome to enjoy them for free. The only problem is the POPS are rare signposted, something councillor Josh Matlow wants to change.

The city doesn't know precisely how many POPS it has - most were built by developers looking to score extra density under Section 37 agreements - but a staff report is in progress that hopes to provide an overview of the current situation.

Here is a working list of a few Toronto POPS:

• Four Seasons Hotel - Rose Garden
• Ritz-Carlton - pedestrian walkways
• CityPlace - multiple courtyards
• 300 Front Street West - street level park
• Minto Midtown - Anne Johnston Courtyard
• U Condos - expanded portions of Bay Cloverhill Park
• One Bedford - The Garden Courtyard
• Radio City Condo - Courtyard
• Bay Adelaide Centre - Arnell Plaza
• Met Condos - pedestrian connections
• VU Condos - pedestrian connections
• 33 Bay Street - public courtyard on Harbour Street

Some under construction:

• King Blue Condominiums - under-construction courtyard
• Fly Condos - under-construction pedestrian connection
• Liberty Village - various under-construction spaces
• Neptune Condos - under-construction park

BED BUGSToronto, like just about every urban centre, has a pest problem. This week, bed bugs were found infesting a library book by the wife of a Toronto Star photographer, which, as I'm sure you appreciate, is not their normal environment.

Bed bugs prefer the cosy warmth of sleeping quarters, usually the folds of blankets, under mattresses, and inside soft furnishings, but they've also been known to lurk under floorboards, behind wall hangings, and behind loose plaster.

Thanks to Toronto Public Health, here are some other creepy places the parasitic little creatures like to hide:

• Behind wallpaper
• Inside clocks
• Inside telephones
• On luggage
• Behind electrical plates
• In drawers
• Along pipes

Severe infestation may give rise to a sweet smell. Sure-fire ways to tell if you've been bitten include: a series of localized, itchy lesions, large welts, or spots of blood on the blanket. The city recommends calling a pest controller immediately if you suspect you may have an infestation.

In the summer the city voted unanimously to re-instate bed bug control funding that had recently expired. The vote also asked the province to match funds the city invests in fighting infestation.

EMPRESS HOTELThe arsonist who burned the former Empress Hotel building was sentenced to 10 years in prison this week for his part in lighting numerous fires in Toronto. The hotel, used as a retail outlet in its later years, was open from 1880 until the mid-70s. In 2010, part of the building collapsed onto Gould Street. The next year, Stewart Poirer finished it off.

Here are some random facts about the building:

• The business was listed in Toronto's first phone book published in 1879
• Jacob Gaudaur, a world-champion sculler, stayed at the hotel in 1901
• The hotel boasted steam heating
• The served Duffy's Pure Malt Whiskey - "The World's Greatest Medicine."
• Operated as the Edison Hotel music venue until its closure

MARITAL BLISSFinally, here are four happily married couples who were featured in a Christmas week edition of the Toronto Star in 1926, several years before the invention of smiling. The wedded men and women were chosen because they all "celebrated" anniversaries this week. Mr. and Mrs. John Craven (bottom left) were married 65 years when the photo was taken.

WHAT WE LEARNED THIS WEEK:

• There's a dedicated streetcar control unit that decides short turns [YouTube]
• Bed bugs like to curl up with a good book too [The Star]
• There's a $150 fine for blocking a bike lane

Chris Bateman is a staff writer at blogTO. Follow him on Twitter at @chrisbateman.

Images: "I need a hug" by Oleksiy & Tetyana from the blogTO Flickr pool, Tridel, Wikimedia Commons, public domain.

Photo by Neil Ta in the blogTO Flickr pool

A Gangnam Style parody video (yep, people are still doing that) made by the maternity team at Sunnybrook hospital has had to be pulled after upsetting a small number of viewers. The hospital received complaints that the video, featuring the refrain "Hey, pregnant ladies," and "Hey, catching babies," caused offense to some birthing women. The original posting had more than 90,000 views.

Darwin the Ikea monkey isn't the only creature running wild in these parts. Over the weekend a wild turkey ruffled a few feathers in southeast Scarborough, mixing it up with traffic on Kingston Road and taking flight at repeated capture attempts. The animal might not be alone - pictures show other wild turkeys in the area. Police eventually snagged the rogue bird in a net, unharmed.

A former top York University could be in hot water after a fake invoice racket that defrauded the school of nearly $250,000 was brought to light. The school alleges a former assistant vice-president of campus services and business operations, Michael Markicevic, used construction materials and resources meant for the university on improving his own home, adding a hot tub and a snowblower for the garage.

Someone in Toronto is sitting on a $50 million Lotto Max ticket, according to OLG. The ticket was sold somewhere in the GTA and won the cash on Friday night's draw.

Just in case you're feeling lonely this festive season, here's video of people reuniting for the holidays at Pearson Airport to make it worse.

For more festive goodness, here's a Star feature on the Good Shepard ministry at Queen and Parliament that's preparing to host more than a 1,000 needy people at its annual Christmas dinner.

Finally, here's one for the history buffs. A letter from the Eaton's store Santa to little Velma Robbins of 70 Spruce Street has surfaced in a garage, complete with beautiful illustrations and a heartfelt message about being good during "the busiest year I've had." St. Nick was busy because it was the first year of the first world war and many of the "daddies" were away. It's possible the letters were sent to Santa at the Queen and Yonge store that year.

IN BRIEF:

• Pedestrian struck in east end [The Star]
• Canadian dance legend, Willy Blok Hanson, dies at 98 [The Star]
• Woman dies in west end fire [CBC]

FROM THE WEEKEND:

• Reviews of Kensington Comics and Bite Me Bakery
• TasteAway enters the Toronto restaurant delivery space
• The Nutcracker a tried and true holiday tradition
• The top 20 deadpool in Toronto from 2012
• That time Toronto saved rock and roll
• Jason Collett's Basement Revue rises up at the Great Hall
• What's open and closed Christmas Day in Toronto 2012
• The top 6 shows to watch this holiday season in Toronto
• Toronto electro artists get love from London record label
• Sunday Supplement: Secret public spaces, bed bugs, and Empress Hotel facts

Morning Brew will break tomorrow for Christmas. It will return, hungover, Boxing Day.

Chris Bateman is a staff writer at blogTO. Follow him on Twitter at @chrisbateman.

Photo: "Toronto" by Che.Pei.En from the blogTO Flickr pool.

Watch out, vintage boutiques and posh high-end retail shops of Ossington and West Queen West. Actually, that's totally wrong — just carry on as usual; this shop couldn't be further from your creed. An international streetwear label with a store here in Toronto and out in Vancouver, this brand has left its second-floor space further east and set up shop right at the corner of Ossington and Queen West.

Read my profile of the new Stussy in the fashion stores section.

Live music picks for WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 26 through SUNDAY DECEMBER 30, 2012.

WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 26 / ALEXISONFIRE / SOUND ACADEMY / 11 POLSON / $52.50 / ALL AGES

One of the most popular bands of this generation, St. Catharine's own Alexisonfire is officially calling it quits, and this will be their last set of shows in Toronto (until they decide to do a reunion tour down the line - let's face it, the odds are good). You'll have four opportunities to see them at the Sound Academy, starting on Boxing Day, and while I have a feeling tickets may be sold out, it's still worth a shot.

THURSDAY DECEMBER 27 / MADEON / THE HOXTON / 69 BATHURST / $20 / 19+

Madeon is a French electro-house producer who, at the ripe old age of 18, has become one of the fastest growing artists in the EDM scene. He initially made a name for himself with remixes of songs by artists such as deadmau5 and Pendulum before putting his own original material out there. If you're fan of electro, you'll probably dig this show, and this may be your last shot to see Madeon in such an intimate venue - he'll be opening for Lady Gaga next year, so he's only going to continue to grow in popularity.

FRIDAY DECEMBER 28 / RUSTY / HORSESHOE TAVERN / 368 QUEEN W / $19 / 19+

Formed in Toronto in 1994, Rusty was one of the most popular local alt-rock bands around until their breakup in 2000. They reunited last year for NXNE, and now they're helping the Horseshoe with their continued 65th anniversary celebration. If you're a fan of '90s music, this will definitely be right up your alley, but there's something here for any fan of alt-rock. You can expect some great vibes and a boisterous crowd at this one.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 29 / CUFF THE DUKE / HORSESHOE TAVERN / 368 QUEEN W / $23.50 / 19+

Any regular reader of the Hot Ticket can tell you that I'm a huge fan of alt-country quintet Cuff the Duke. As such, when they take the stage on Saturday at the Horseshoe, I have to give this show my highest recommendation. The band has a stage presence that is almost unparalleled, and their shows are some of the most enjoyable I've ever been to. While their music won't appeal to everyone, I suggest you give it a shot if you're looking for an enjoyable evening out.

SUNDAY DECEMBER 30 / JOANNE MACKELL AND TRU GRIT / THE GLADSTONE HOTEL / 1214 QUEEN W / FREE / ALL AGES

Before you prepare to head out on New Year's Eve for a night of drinks and celebration, why not take in this free performance by Joanne Mackell and Tru Grit? Mackell is well known for her distinctive voice and her very strong stage presence - if you're not familiar with her work, I highly recommend you seek it out. And you can't really say no to a free show, especially one with such strong talent.

For more music listings, check out our events calendar.

Looking for tickets? Check out Rotate This or Soundscapes to avoid Ticketmaster robbery.

Have an event you'd like us to plug? Submit your own listing to the blogTO events calendar.

Photo of Alexisonfire courtesy of bob8son on Flickr.

This week on DineSafe had big names, big chains, and more than a couple of bad records. Proving that just any restaurant can be pegged with a conditional pass, the normally acclaimed Globe Bistro on Danforth, as well as Guu Izakaya in the Annex, got yellow signs after inspection. Chain bar and grills Gabby's and Kelsey's also found a couple of their locations on the DineSafe low list, along with a few perpetual offenders who never stray too far from the group of conditional passers. Here's a look at DineSafe this week.

Gabby's Grill House (2572 Yonge St)
Inspected on: December 18
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional Pass)
Number of infractions: 9 (Minor: 2, Significant: 6, Crucial: 0)
Crucial infractions include: N/A

Gamberoni Seafood (3238 Yonge St)
Inspected on: December 19
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional Pass)
Number of infractions: 5 (Minor: 2, Significant: 3, Crucial: 0)
Crucial infractions include: N/A

Globe Bistro (124 Danforth Ave)
Inspected on: December 20
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
Number of infractions: 3 (Minor: 0, Significant: 2, Crucial: 1)
Crucial infractions include: Failure to protect food from contamination

Guu Izakaya (559 Bloor St)
Inspected on: December 19
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional Pass)
Number of infractions: 3 (Minor: 0, Significant: 2, Crucial: 1)
Crucial infractions include: Failure to protect food from contamination

Kelsey's (1215 McCowan Rd)
Inspected on: December 17
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional Pass)
Number of infractions: 6 (Minor: 2, Significant: 4, Crucial: 0)
Crucial infractions include: N/A

Lee Town Chinese Restaurant (370 Yonge St)
Inspected on: December 17
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional Pass)
Number of infractions: 8 (Minor: 4, Significant: 2, Crucial: 2)
Crucial infractions include: Failure to protect food from contamination, inadequate food temperature control

River Tai (92 Harbord St)
Inspected on: December 17
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional Pass)
Number of infractions: 5 (Minor: 3, Significant: 1, Crucial: 1)
Crucial infractions include: Failure to protect food from contamination

Sang Restaurant (1926 Weston Road)
Inspected on: December 18
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional Pass)
Number of infractions: 7 (Minor: 4, Significant: 1, Crucial: 1)
Crucial infractions include: Inadequate food temperature control

As I noted last week, 2012 has been a big year for Toronto's beer scene. And, owing to the increased availability of local beer and our increasingly sophisticated beer tastes, this year's new beer offerings were even more diverse and interesting than last year's. Narrowing the field to just five of the best new beers brewed by the city's brewers this year was no easy endeavour, but let's be honest--there are no losers when there are so many new breweries opening up in and around Toronto. Some new beers, however, stood out among the others this year.

Here are my picks for the best five.

Great Lakes Brewery's 25th Anniversary Robust Porter
In honour of their 25th anniversary this year, Toronto's oldest craft brewer has been rolling out a series of beers made in a traditional style. Realistically, any one of brewer Mike Lackey's anniversary series beers could have made this list. His 25th Anniversary Saison and his 25th Anniversary Imperial Black IPA were also ridiculously good, but my personal favourite is the Robust Porter. The aroma is all roasted malts with hints of chocolate and the taste is mildly bitter black chocolate, with semi-sweet coffee.

It's got a virtually undetectable alcohol flavour but still weighs in at a substantial 7.2%. In short, it's a perfectly creamy, smoky, and rich sipper and, while it was brewed to be a one-off, if Great Lakes doesn't find a way to continue brewing this all year, I will personally lead the angry mob out to Etobicoke to change their minds.

Bellwoods Brewery's Witchshark Imperial IPA
It's hard to find a beer on Bellwoods' ever-changing lineup that is anything less than stellar, but one of the beers that Mike Clark and Luke Pestl have been brewing ever since they opened hits all the right marks. The Witchshark Imperial IPA is something like the perfect hop bomb, managing great bitterness and a remarkable balance. The aromas are citrus, grapefruit, and a bit of pine, and it's got awesome head retention and lacing that ensure the aromas stick around until the last sip.

The flavour is a cascade hops smack in the mouth, but it stops short of being offensive with a sweet, caramel malt backbone. Essentially, this double-IPA is the perfect bitter, hoppy pint that other Ontario brewers wish they made--on steroids. It weighs in at a dangerously imperceptible 9% ABV and has been known to send more than a few of my Saturday afternoons off on an unexpected wobbly tangent.

Cameron's Brewing Company's Rye Pale Ale
Technically this beer was first brewed in 2011 as an entry in the Cask IPA Challenge at bar Volo, but it got its first commercial run in April of 2012, making it eligible for this list, well, because it's my list and I can do whatever I want. If you've never had an RPA, you need to get your hands on this beer: not only is it possible that RPAs could become the next big thing in Ontario brewing, but this beer is largely the reason that might happen. It's that good. It's a sort of amber orange with a thin foamy head and the pale ale part of this beer delivers all the citrus aromas you would expect of a beer that combines British and American hops.

It's also got some bitterness on the finish, but the generous portion of rye gives this 6.6% ABV beer some unique spiciness balanced with a little sweet caramel malts. Unfortunately, Cameron's RPA is currently only available in select bars and in the bottle at Cameron's on-site retail store. Hopefully it will show up on enough "best of" lists that Cameron's will get their asses in gear and get this in LCBOs so we city dwellers can drink it all year round without having to trek out to Oakville.

Indie Alehouse's Red Tape Stout
Most of the beers Jason Fisher and Co. are brewing out in the Junction are something of a revelation, but for me, the best of the bunch has been the cheekily-named Red Tape Stout, so dubbed to commemorate the arduous process of getting his brewpub up and running. This stout is just a great beer. It pours as dark as motor oil with a thick taupe head and the aroma is rich like strong coffee. It's got a fantastic creamy mouthfeel, just the right touch of smokiness, and just a hint of sweetness.

Red Tape actually joins an oft-overlooked class of fantastic Ontario stouts (e.g. Wellington Imperial Stout, Amsterdam's Tempest Imperial, even the newly-brewed Get Well/Duggan's collaboration) and like some of its peers, Red Tape manages a great creamy smoothness while still packing a wallop (a potent 10.5% ABV, in fact). As evidenced by the pinot-barrel aged version that was debuted at Indie's recent stout night, Red Tape seems destined for experimental iterations, but here's hoping it finds a regular place in the Indie lineup because it does just fine on its own.

Amsterdam Brewery's Calm Before the Storm
Possibly the most underrated in brewer Iain McOustra's lineup of "Adventure Brews," Calm Before the Storm uses the same malt bill as their Tempest Imperial Stout, but instead of the nap-inducing heft of that beer's heavy 10% profile, Calm Before the Storm weighs in at a ridiculously drinkable 3.2%, making it one of a very small collection of locally brewed English milds.

This beer has all the richness and interesting espresso and dark chocolate flavours you'd expect from a great dark beer, but with its low alcohol profile, amped up carbonation, and frothy rather than creamy head, Calm Before the Storm is more akin to refreshing than complex. It's basically a great dark beer you could drink a dozen of.

2012 honourable mentions:
Kensington Brewing Company's Baldwin FisheyePA
Spearhead Brewing Company's Moroccan Brown Ale

2012 out-of-town favourites:
Muskoka Brewery's Twice as Mad Tom Double IPA
Silversmith Brewing Company's Black Lager

Photo by Traven Benner

The Bay Street motel was a bit of a legend in its heyday. A filthy, scary, shameful legend. Named the second dirtiest hotel in Canada by TripAdvisor in 2009, I actually let my masochistic side take over a few years back and decided to saunter over with a roommate to "inquire" about a room. Needless to say, the subsequent feeling of persistent itchiness took a while to subside.

But gone are those days for the structure at 650 Bay. Sold to investors from Greece and under renovations for the past couple of years, the hotel is poised to reveal itself anew as a chic "destination space" in the heart of Toronto's downtown. To be called the Be SixFifty Hotel, the new space will boast 22 totally made-over rooms, all of which will have ensuite bathrooms, recessed televisions, iPads for guest use, and other technological boons. Each suite has been designed by Robin De Groot, whose work has been featured on Restaurant Makeover and in various Canadian magazines and television shows.

"I just want to be clear, the space will be entirely new," says Addy Saeed, the realtor for the project. "The washrooms are totally new with mosaic tiles, high-end finishes, and all the latest technologies," he says. The hotel will also have its own second-floor lounge space (with a menu to be finalized) and rooftop patio for sunshine in the summertime. The adjacent Sliced cafe has already been operational for nearly a year.

While not a designated heritage structure, Addy says the new owners have opted to work within 650 Bay's existing shell to maintain an intimate, boutique hotel atmosphere. "I really think this will be a destination in downtown Toronto," he adds, noting that Be SixFifty has an edge location-wise over The Drake and Gladstone hotels. "It's right in the middle of downtown, a stone's throw from Dundas Square, and walking distance to everything," he says.

Be SixFifty doesn't have an exact opening date just yet, but Addy estimates that it will start taking its first guests sometime in February. Chances are, however, that unlike the former Bay Street Motel, you won't be able to snag a room here for $59.95 per night.

The Kensington Market Winter Solstice parade is a tried-and-true tradition (now in its 23rd year) that, quite literally, lights up the longest, darkest night of the year. How, you ask? With the aid of a procession of lantern-holders, and a finale event that sees fire-throwers and the burning of an effigy.

Last Friday, December 21st, people bundled against one of the coldest nights of the season thus far began to gather at the corner of Oxford St. and Augusta Ave. at 6pm, then slowly made their way (many wielding lanterns) to Alexandra Park, led by a marching band.

Everyone eventually gathered in the baseball court, circling the main event--costumed breathers, throwers, and other manipulators of fire offered up a brief respite from the night. December 21st was particularly special, as parade-goers, bar-hoppers and couch-surfers across the city were doubtlessly heard to mutter with a shrug that the world didn't end after all--and lighting up the night was among the best ways to celebrate.

Additional photos:Photos by Jimmy Lu

This just in: a Christmas gift from Clayton Ruby, the lawyer representing Paul Magder, the Toronto resident who brought the conflict of interest case against Rob Ford. In a statement of facts filed today, Ruby shoots down many of the appeal arguments outlined by Rob Ford's legal team in advance of the Jan. 7 hearing that will once and for all decide whether the mayor stays or goes.

In the document, Ruby systematically picks apart the grounds Ford's lawyer Alan Lenczner laid for appeal in a similar document filed earlier this month, countering claims that council was outside its jurisdiction when it ordered Ford to pay back $3,150 in donation solicited for his personal charity using city resources.

The 44-page factum also argues Justice Charles T. Hackland, the judge in the original case, did not misinterpret the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act when ruling that Ford's council seat be declared vacant as Lenczner claims. Ruby calls Ford's breach of the MCIA "wanton, reckless and completely lacking bona fides [sincerity]."

There's also a rebuttal of the mayor's claims that the amount in question was insignificant, citing legal precedence from Howick Township, northwest of the city, in which $300 was deemed significant under the MCIA. "It takes a long time and a good deal of hard work for an ordinary Canadian to save up $3,150.00," Ruby notes.

A final decision in the protracted saga is expected by February once a panel of three judges have considered both sides of the appeal. If Ford is booted from the clamshell, council will have to either hold a by-election or appoint a new mayor for the remainder of the current term of office that ends in 2014. If he stays, it's still unlikely to be business as usual.

Here's the full text of the document. Stay tuned for more legal drama in 2013.

Magder Ruby Factum

Chris Bateman is a staff writer at blogTO. Follow him on Twitter at @chrisbateman.

Image: HiMY SYeD / photopia in the blogTO Flickr pool.

Toronto restaurants open on Christmas Day are not as elusive you might think. There are lots of open Chinese places, of course, plus many restaurants in hotels including Hemispheres in the Metropolitan Hotel and EPIC at the Royal York. And then there are the one-off seemingly always-open spots — those that offer everything from turkey burgers to ham carbonara. Pair that with a crantini or two, and you've got yourself a bona fide traditional Christmas dinner. -Ish.

Here are 10 restaurants open on Christmas Day in Toronto.

Lakeview Restaurant
Pulled pork on a kaiser with a root beer float on the side? Sounds like an excellent new Christmas dinner tradition. The Lakeview on Dundas is always open, of course, and Christmas Day is no exception. Stop by early for a little Christmas brunch, or else, after your evening meal for a cheap pint. Perfect after prolonged family exposure.

Kamasutra
Nothing says Christmas dinner like chicken tikka masala. Kamasutra Indian Restaurant on Bayview will be open for a non-traditional butter chicken and tandoori sampler meal, best washed down with Cobra lager. It's not quite egg nog, but it'll do.

Caplansky's Deli
A good choice for the bubbies and zadies out there who are are tired of Chinese food on Christmas Day. Though it will close early on Christmas Eve (4 p.m.), Caplansky's will be open until 8 p.m. on Christmas, frying up latkes (Hanukkah is just a week past, after all) and serving its classic smoked meat on rye.

7 West
Another 24-hour spot that basically never closes, Christmas included. 7 West will be open for a slice of cake after your meal, or a club sandwich for your meal. And if you're feeling festive(ish), the menu, as always, includes turkey melts and pizzas with ham. Close enough.

Le Saint Tropez
Yes, there are a few places open in the core on Christmas Day, and not every one starts with "Mc-" in front of its name. Le Saint Tropez is just one such example, offering its regular French fare menu along with a special Christmas option.

The Thompson Diner
Those cravings for buttermilk fried chicken and grilled cheese hamburgers won't go unfulfilled just because it's Christmas. The Thompson Diner will be open as always, dolling out generous portions of its classic comfort food along with some holiday cheer. Plus spiked milkshakes, naturally.

Dr. Laffa
While there will probably be more than a couple of Middle Eastern restaurants open on Christmas Day, Dr. Laffa is arguably among the best. This North York restaurant will be making its hot laffa and rolling fresh falafel balls as always, offering rib steaks and lamb chops in lieu of turkey dinners.

Fin Izakaya
There's the cheap sushi or Chinese takeout route, of course, but for a bit of a more "refined" experience (not that there's anything wrong with sashimi in sweats, mind you), Fin Izakaya will be open for dinner on the 25th. Blowtorched mackerel, pork belly skewers, and crispy rock salt wings are just a few of its acclaimed offerings, all of which will be available for Christmas dinner (though the restaurant is closed on Boxing Day).

Vaticano
Yorkville is typically a ghost town on Christmas, through there are a few straddlers breezing in and out of Vaticano. The Bellair Street restaurant will be offering a special Christmas dinner option on Christmas Day, along with its classic Italian menu. Think of it as Christmas dinner without the guilt.

Fran's Restaurant
Ah, Fran's. Good for hangover brunch. Good for a midnight brunch. And good for Christmas Day when all you need is a milkshake and a bowl of chili. Fran's, naturally, will be open all day on Christmas, offering its menu of classic comfort foods and plentiful list of breakfast options. Turkey bacon is festive enough.

Photo from our review of The Thompson Diner

Photo by Kim Yokota in the blogTO Flickr pool

Get into the spirit with these holiday songs from Toronto bands

My personal favourite holiday listening is Hanson's Snowed In. I've been listening to it every Christmas since 1997 — so that is disturbing (let's attribute it to egg nog, ok?).

Below you'll find 10 Christmas songs by Toronto artists/bands — guaranteed to be just as infectious as Hanson and a lot less horrible. Happy holidays to all!

The Elwins— "All I Want For Christmas Is You"
If you're still questioning whether The Elwins are the nicest band around, this cute video will put the issue to rest. Dan Busheikin of ChartAttack talks to the band about believing in Santa, their favourite Christmas songs and also steals the show at the end of the video. Clips are interspersed throughout the Mariah Carey cover, and makes for the cutest and warmest video.

Ohbijou— "Last Christmas"
Christmas angst never sounded so pretty. Ohbijou does a decent rendition of the Wham! classic about unrequited love. No song that deploys the analogy "soul of ice" and which features the repeated use of the word "special" has any business being good, but somehow this one defies expectations. "Hold my heart and watch it burn..."

Feist— "Please Be Patient"
Sung to the tune of "Angels We Have Heard on High," Feist joins forces with Stephen Colbert to satirize the prospect of getting through to that Christmas angel you've been hoping will help to answer your prayers. The basic premise: be prepared to wait awhile.

Serena Ryder— "Calling To Say"
More holiday sadness — perhaps with a touch of incest! Serena Ryder is in love with a member of her family (alright, it's probably an ex-spouse, but the opening lyrics just sound weird), who's moved on with his life and is no longer around to go on Christmas light tours. Positively heartbreaking.

Dragonette— "Merry X-Mas *Says Your Text Message)"
Evidently a big hit with Germans (which makes sense because that's where Christmas trees come from), there's a lesson in here for the ex-lover who wishes to send season's greetings to an old flame. Don't do it, or you might get the following response: "Thanks a lot, but fuck you." It's beginning to sound a lot like Christmas!

Fucked Up— "Do They Know It's Christmas?"
Funded with a portion of the cash they won for the 2009 Polaris Prize, Fucked Up's cover of the star-studded '80s hit features its own fair share of (indie) clout. Offering their services are Yo La Tengo, Kevin Drew, GZA, Ezra Koenig of Vampire Weekend, Bob Mould, Tegan & Sara, Andrew W.K., Kyp Malone, and David Cross.

The Skydiggers— "Good King Wenceslas"
Unfortunately not a video of a live performance but instead a series of cheesy photographs. Nevertheless, the song is pretty damn good as far as holiday tracks go.

Teenage Kicks— "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town"
This is the best Christmas song I've ever heard. Peter's own description of this cover is the one to read, though — not mine. Check out the link above for the story.

Jason Collett— "A Beguiled Christmas Sales"
Probably not a surprise, but Jason Collett shies away from the conventional holiday cheer (at least lyrically) in favour of a more sobering take on the rampant commercialism that defines this time of year. Hey, at least it sounds upbeat. If you don't listen carefully, you can still open all your gifts with glee!

Evening Hymns— "Sonjas Sang Til Julestjernen"
Who knows what it's about? They say it's Christmas music and it kind of sounds like Christmas music — so I'm going to go with that, especially on account of those horns.

BONUS

For a whole lot more holiday music from local bands, check out the Ho! Ho! Ho! Canada compilation, which was released a few years ago and is now free for download.

What's open and closed on Boxing Day 2012 in Toronto:

CLOSED

• All LCBO and Beer Store locations
• Government offices and banks
• Libraries
• Most Sobeys locations
• St. Lawrence Market
• No mail delivery

OPEN

• Food Depot (Dupont and Davenport), Rabba grocery stores (various locations), Super Freshmart (524 Church St., from 8 am-6 pm), Bloor SuperSave (384 Bloor Street West), most Kitchen Table locations, most Loblaws and No Frills locations, Pusateri's (8am-6pm)
• The Pacific Mall, The Eaton Centre (extended hours of 7 am-10 pm), Yorkdale Mall (8 am - 8 pm), Square One (8 am-8 pm), Vaughan Mills (8 am-9 pm)
• Major movie theatres
• Most public ice skating rinks
• Attractions such as the AGO (10am-4pm), ROM (10:00 am-5:30 pm), Ontario Science Centre (10 am-6 pm), CN Tower, Toronto Zoo
• Some Wine Rack locations (including 560 Queen St. West, which will remain open 11am-11pm)
• Amsterdam Brewery (at their new location of 45 Esandar Dr.) and Steam Whistle Brewery are open

RESTAURANTS

Many restaurants will be closed, but some, like Lakeview Restaurant, will remain open.

TTC

The TTC and GO Transit will operate on a Sunday schedule.

Boxing day sales in Toronto are upon us again. Boxing day is the one day of the year it feels like every single person is out and about, roaming the malls and the streets (often in a panicked frenzy) trying to score that gift they missed out on, or looking for something (anything) to justify purchasing only because it was on sale. Though December 26 happenings usually involve big crowds, a long wait for parking, and general discomfort, it all seems worth it when you walk away with a great deal. So, whether it's clothing, electronics, or a little something else you need (read: want), here are some limited time Boxing Day sales going on in Toronto for 2012.

FASHION

Dalston Grey
This ultra-cool retailer is offering savings on (almost) everything- giving you a chance to snatch a fabulously unique outfit for New Year's Eve. All of their contemporary lines (Gat Rimon, Capulet, Amour Vert, Killigrew, and Raleigh Denim) will be 50%, and all of their high-quality vintage merchandise will be 15% off. The boutique is only open from 11 am until 4 pm on Boxing Day, but the sale is going on all week.

Lost & Found
This boutique is always welcoming shoppers with the smell of coffee and a warm atmosphere, which is why they're offering complimentary Americanos while you shop their one-day sales on Boxing Day. Women's clothing will be 50% and men's clothing will be 30% off, so stop by from 11 am until 4 pm or miss out big time.

69 Vintage Clothing Company
Having just recently opened their new V shop, the trio of stores must be in the mood for celebrating; each location has their own set of discounts to offer customers. Everything is under $30 at Buy the Pound by 69 (1207 Bloor St W) until January 1st. The 69 Vintage Flagship (1100 Queen St W) will be 50% off everything on December 27 and 28 only. Finally, the new V by 69 shop (702 Queen St W) is offering 20% off all coats, footwear, and fur.

The Bay
The Bay has a slew of sales going on throughout the year, but the Boxing Day sale is always guaranteed to be the best (and most hectic) one of them all. The big one is the extra 40% off already-reduced merchandise, but a whack of other promotions are going on including 15% off designer watches and 60% off select jewellery.

More fashion sales:

• Gotstyle: 30 - 40 % off everything at 62 Bathurst Street. 50 - 70% off everything at 21 Trinity Street. Both locations open from 10 am until 6 pm.
• Pretty Freedom: Any two items for $30, dubbed the #HOLICRAY sale. Open from 12 pm until 8 pm.
• Lavish & Squalor: Store-wide markdowns on fall/winter merchandise until December 30. Open from 9:30 am until 9 pm on December 26.
• Lileo: Select items marked at 80% off.
• Nomad: 50% off fall/winter merchandise. Doors open at 10 am.
• Chosen: 30% off all clothing.
• Uncle Otis: Select merchandise up to 60% off. Until quantities last.
• Woodlawn: 50% off all womenswear, 30% off select menswear, and 50% off footwear. Open from 11 am until 7 pm.
• Bridge + Bardot: Select items marked at up to 70% off, and 30% off regular-priced merchandise. Open from 12 pm until 4 pm.
• Rac Boutique: Everything marked 50 - 70% off on December 26 only. Open from 9 am until 7 pm.
• Pomp & Pageantry: 30% off entire store. Dresses and other select items marked at 50% off.
• Over the Rainbow: Up to 50% off all denim and fall/winter merchandise. Select items at door-crasher prices starting at $25. Doors open at 8 am.
• Holt Renfrew: Up to 50% off on fall/winter items, plus take an additional 20% off already-reduced merchandise until quantities last. Doors open at 7am on December 26.
• Diesel (92 Yorkville and Yorkdale Shopping Centre only): 50% off all fall/winter merchandise and select denim. Open from 8 am until 8 pm.
• Club Monaco: Additional 50% off already-reduced merchandise.
• Cabaret: Select items marked up to 60% off. Kingpin (the pop-up shop in the basement) is offering 50% off everything excluding jewellery. From December 27th onwards.
• Magwood: 15% off everything including designer goods and sale merchandise already marked up to 60% off. December 27 to 30 only.

ELECTRONICS

Best Buy
The online sale is already on, but if you're more of a non-virtual shopper, drop in to one of their Toronto area stores to snag a Samsung 46" LED HD TV for $699 or a Canon Rebel T3i digital SLR camera bundle for $539.

Future Shop
Though the online sale has already begun, the in-store sale starts bright and early at 6 am on Boxing Day. The lack of shut-eye might be worth it when you score a Samsung 55" slim LED TV for $899 or a Bose theatre speaker system for $679.

HOME

Haveli Home
The winter sale is here at last! Get a little (or big) recycled/reclaimed/vintage something for your apartment straight out of India at insanely low prices. Select items will be marked up to 50% off, or you can take 40% off all regular-priced furniture. The sale will be going on all week long.

Shelter Furniture
Shelter's Boxing Week sale is back in action this year. Merchandise will be marked up to 50% off until December 30th. Plus, pay no HST! Your home will be modernized in no time.

More home sales:

• The Bay: 40 - 60% off furniture, luggage, beddings, dinnerware, and more.
• EQ3: 15% off all regular-priced merchandise, or 20% off a purchase of $2500 or more (before tax and delivery charges). Select items marked up to 50% off.

Photo by Dubes in the blogTO Flickr pool

FUNDRAISER | Pressure Drop - Heavyweight Boxing Night
Pressure Drop goes down tonight at The Embassy. This Boxing Day tradition is happening once again this evening, with a sweet selection of skilled stylus mavens, including A Man Called Warwick, Anousheh, Brendan Canning, Iron Will, K Zar, Moose Jah, and Senor Vishal. This is slated to be an awesome night of music with a seriously diverse playlist, and it's for a great cause. All proceeds from your cover go to the Daily Bread Food Bank--go to this event and make a difference, while having a great time.
Embassy Bar (223 Augusta Avenue) 9PM $10

MUSIC | What's In The Box 2012
Tonight begins a special mini music fest that is slowly becoming a TO Holiday season tradition: What's In The Box. For five nights, you'll get five bands for five bucks - a seriously awesome deal that nearly treads into "Christmas miracle" territory, were it not for the fact that it's now happening every year during Boxing Week. This year's selection of musical talent includes local faves Badbadnotgood, Ark Analog, a Diamond Rings DJ set, Moon King, Zeus, and other notables. Tonight, you can catch Sandman Viper Command with July Talk and The Beverleys.
The Drake Hotel (1150 Queen Street West) 8PM $5

PARTY | 5th Annual Boxing Day Party
The Estonian House is where some good times will be at tonight. With two floors, and ten DJs lined up, this is looks promising: DJs Danilo, Duck, Geronimo, Gury Gury, Nilson and others are ready to make this one of the last big blowouts of the year. One dance floor will be entirely dedicated to Kizomba and Zouk, and the other featuring Salsa, Cha-Cha and Bachata. To top things off, there will be live performances by iFreeStyle.ca, Latin Groove Productions, SalsaTO.ca, and more.
The Estonian House (958 Broadview Avenue) 7PM $20

CLUBS | 8th Annual OLD SCHOOL Boxing Day Blowout @ FOOTWORK w. CHRIS SHEPPARD & MANY MORE!
When the folks at Footwork say "Old School", they aren't kidding around. Tonight, you can expect a trip back to the vintage Toronto rave and club scene of the '90s. Chris Sheppard is the headliner tonight: the man behind the Pirate Radio sessions, Love Inc, and BKS will show you exactly why all TO DJs are indebted to his trailblazing. Other heavies being featured tonight include Mark Oliver, MC Flipside, Manzone & Strong, Dr. Trance, and others not to be missed. Tonight's hosts are Robb G, Jon Jon, Andy D, Kristin Insley, Lauren Hazzan, Sasha Niveole, and Miz Megs.
Footwork (425 Adelaide Street West) 9PM

OTHER EVENTS ON OUR RADAR

Alexisonfire, Moneen 10-Year Anniversary Farewell Tour
BASSMENTALITY PRESENTS: EPHIXA (CAN) & DR. OZI
What It Is! presents The Boxing Day Jamm

Have an event you'd like to plug? Submit your own listing to the blogTO Toronto events calendar or contact us directly.

Photo by Kim Yokota in the blogTO Flickr pool

Photo by Proletar1at in the blogTO Flickr pool

Paul Magder, the Toronto citizen who brought the conflict of interest case against Rob Ford, says the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act must be "interpreted harshly" to ensure the public trusts its elected officials. In a factum filed Dec. 24, Magder outlined the arguments his lawyer Clayton Ruby will make before an appeal hearing on Jan. 5. "Nothing less than the integrity of government is at stake," says Magder.

Here's something to make you feel warm inside (in addition to that early-morning bourbon): east-end firefighters delivered Christmas gifts to children in Scarborough General Hospital yesterday for the fifteenth year in a row.

According to the New York Times, Toronto is a hot-bed of locavore eats and farmers' markets just begging to be explored. The paper's travel section explores several of our city's best places to find local produce, including Sorauren Park Farmers' Market, Dufferin Grove Market, and the stalwart St. Lawrence Farmers' Market, in a travel piece published yesterday. [via Reddit]

The next few days could be pretty snowy if weather reports prove accurate. A system moving into southern Ontario from the US this morning could bring a significant amount of lake-effect snow to the GTA. Several incoming flights to Pearson airport have been cancelled as a precaution.

As for yesterday's snow, no-one seems sure if it was a white Christmas or not. Environment Canada requires an even 2 cm of snow at 7am, something that didn't really happen in the city, but most ordinary folk seemed content to chalk one up, the first Christmas snowfall since 2008.

If you're planning on braving the threat of foul weather here's out guide to Boxing Day deals in Toronto. Remember to keep it civilized, folks.

Finally, found a USB near Staples at King and Yonge? This guy wants it back - not for the naked pictures and video it contains (all legit) - just for the pictures of Japan and cars. Help a guy out if you find it - there's a $50 reward. [also via Reddit]

IN OTHER NEWS:

• Canadian dance legend, Willy Blok Hanson, dies at 98 [The Star]
• Lotto Max winner says $50-million jackpot won't change her Christmas plans [National Post]
• 4 rushed to hospital after being stabbed in North York [CP24]

Chris Bateman is a staff writer at blogTO. Follow him on Twitter at @chrisbateman.

Photo: "underground king" by Proletar1at from the blogTO Flickr pool.